June is PTSD Awareness Month, a time set aside to shine alight on a condition that affects millions but is still often misunderstood. At Ori Hope Counseling, based in Cypress and serving the greater Houston area, we believe in breaking the silence around Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and offering compassionate, trauma-informed counseling for those on their healing journey. If you’re looking for counseling services in Cypress or the Houston area, we’re here for you — with bilingual and Christian counseling available for those who need it.
What is PTSD?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. While it’s normal to feel shaken after something distressing, PTSD can develop when those feelings don’t fade — and instead, they start to interfere with daily life. Anyone can develop PTSD, regardless of age, background, or type of trauma.
Recognizing the symptoms
PTSD doesn’t always look the way you’d expect. Some people relive traumatic events through flashbacks or nightmares, while others might avoid places, people, or situations that remind them of what happened. There’s no single “right” way to experience PTSD, but here are some of the most common symptoms:
- Intrusive memories: Flashbacks, nightmares, or unwanted thoughts about the trauma.
- Avoidance: Steering clear of reminders — whether that’s people, conversations, or certain places.
- Negative changes in mood or thinking: Feeling numb, hopeless, guilt-ridden, or detached from loved ones.
- Changes in physical and emotional reactions: Being easily startled, feeling tense, having trouble sleeping, or experiencing angry outbursts.
It’s worth noting: PTSD symptoms can show up soon after a traumatic event, or sometimes months or even years later.
Tips for Managing and Treating PTSD
Healing from trauma isn’t about “getting over it” — it’s about learning to live with your experiences in a way that feels safe and empowering. Here are some steps that can help:
1. Reach Out for Support
You don’t have to do this alone. Connecting with a therapist — especially one with trauma-informed counseling experience — can make a huge difference. At Ori Hope Counseling, we offer counseling services in Cypress and the Houston area, including bilingual and Christian counseling for those who prefer support in Spanish or want to integrate their faith into the healing process. Support groups, whether in-person or online, also offer the chance to share stories and find solidarity.
2. Practice Grounding Techniques
When anxiety spikes or a flashback hits, grounding exercises can help bring you back to the present. Try naming five things you can see, four you can touch, three you can hear, two you can smell, and one you can taste.
3. Prioritize Self-Care
Simple things like regular meals, gentle movement, and getting enough sleep can go a long way toward stabilizing mood and reducing stress.
4. Learn About Triggers
Understanding what sets off your symptoms can help you prepare for — or even avoid — certain situations. Journaling about your experiences may reveal patterns you hadn’t noticed before.
5. Explore Therapy Options
Evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and trauma-informed counseling have helped many people find relief. Medication can also be an important part of treatment for some.
6. Be Patient With Yourself
Healing isn’t linear. Some days will be harder than others, and that’s okay. Celebrate every small victory.
You’re Not Alone
PTSD can make the world feel unsafe or unpredictable, but there is hope — and help. At Ori Hope Counseling, we’re committed to supporting you at every step, whether you’re just beginning to recognize your symptoms or you’re ready to explore new treatment options. If you’re searching for counseling services in Cypress or the Houston area, including trauma-informed counseling, bilingual, or Christian counseling, reach out to us. We’re here to walk with you through every season.
This June let’s keep the conversation going. If you or someone you love is struggling with PTSD, reach out. Healing is possible, and you deserve support.
– The Ori Hope Counseling Team
